Baba says, “You are social beings. One cannot live in isolation. When
you feel thirsty, you can’t manufacture a spade, dig a well, and draw
water yourself. One person will make a spade, another will add the
wooden handle, and another will dig the well — this is how we work
collectively. This is the way for human beings to live. In all spheres
of human existence, in the aesthetic sphere as well, humanity should live
collectively. You should live in unison. You should vibrate together to
the same music. You should move in a common psychic flow. You should fight
collectively against your common enemies. Unitedly you should face all
problems, mundane and supra-mundane. In a word, you must reflect the
spirit of harmonious collective living in conformity with the spirit
of the Vedic mantra Sam’gacchadhvam’ sam’vadadhvam.” (5 April 1981)

Baba’s above teaching is the special guideline for arousing
social conscious– which is lacking these days in the society. It is also
commonly known that some top dadas have gone far off from this
above Baba’s teaching.

Note: This series of letters, “A’nanda Pu’rn’ima’ Celebrations: Baba’s Guidelines”, has four parts. Each part, presented by a different margii, offers complementary ways and descriptions for celebrating Ananda Purnima. Together, these letters paint a picture for how to commemorate this grand festival. We wholeheartedly welcome your suggestions as well. – AM-GLOBAL Moderators

Namaskar, Revered Baba has lovingly instilled within us all a vision for how to move ahead in life and He has graciously blessed us with the divine feeling of devotion, or bhakti. And indeed in each and every sphere of existence – whether physical, psychic, or spiritual– He has paved the way for humanity’s growth, generation, and enlightenment. Thus the divine and holy advent of Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji is the most significant event this earth has ever seen. Naturally then the blessed day of Ananda Purnima is recognised as the greatest and most celebrated of all our AM social functions.

Here following are further suggestions and ways to celebrate this divine day.

As we all know, this year Ananda Purnima falls on 6 May.

CELEBRATIONS AROUND THE GLOBE– IN EACH AND EVERY UNIT

Unlike centralised events like DMS etc, the occasion of Ananda Purnima is meant to be joyfully celebrated in each and every unit. It is a local function for one and all. Thus every unit is highly encouraged to host their own Ananda Purnima celebration. And, sure enough, many ideal units do everything – more than a full day program. Thus margiis and sympathizers often arrive the evening before for initial programs and presentations and then continue the next day of Ananda Purnima with a special paincajanya and celebrate the whole day through with a varied array of activities and programs, culminating and concluding late that evening. Here the main point being that, to one or another degree, blissful Ananda Purnima programs should take place locally in each and every unit– this is Baba’s prescribed system. And more about this idea is also appended as note 2 at the end of this letter.

SPECIAL PRABHAT SAMGIITA PROGRAMS

As everyone may remember, Baba has beautifully given the system of making extended Prabhat Samgiita programs whereby gathered margiis to sing the blissful song: Several compositions of Prabhat Samgiita. Just like we often have our long akhanda kiirtan programs of 3, 6, or 12 hours – in the same way these programs of Prabhat Samgiita can also take place.

Many may recall how Baba used to sit on the dais and call for the beginning of Prabhat Samgiita programs for the grand celebration of our Ananda Purnima social function. And it would proceed step by step where first one purport was read out by a selected margii and then the singing of that same song would begin and small young children of 8 or 9 years of age would dance to that song. And then as soon as that song was completed then another would begin with the reading of the purport followed by the singing and dance performance of that very song. And in this grand fashion several songs were linked together – all the while maintaining a nicely formatted sequence where the first song celebrated Baba’s holy advent and then the next song depicts His divine blessings etc. And by that way several songs are linked together creating one panoramic, devotional picture.

INCULCATING THE SPIRIT OF COLLECTIVE SAM’GACCHADVAM’

Plus Ananda Purnima is a wonderful opportunity to bring forth one and all in collective harmony.

Baba says, “At the outset of any festival or social ceremony, the Sam’gacchadvam’ mantra is recited, the purpose is to impose the common ideal on all. The love for the entire humanity.” (Prout Nutshell – 4)

Thus on the festive occasions of Ananda Purnima small kids, youths, university students, parents, seniors and devotees of all walks of life – everyone moves together in one thread. So these social functions offer something for everyone, thus building the bridge of an ideal human society.

Indeed the joining and gathering for Ananda Purnima is a special event as it represents the union of everyone’s heart. This function is not like some crowd at the movie cinema, which is just a rag-tag collection of people with their own individual agendas and separate thoughts. That is nothing but a crowd totally devoid of any family feeling. That is like one fake flower that is superficially colored yet carries no aroma. In contrast, our devotional, heart-felt gathering of Ananda Purnima reflects society in the deepest sense of the term where everyone is moving and smiling together as one integrated whole – ready to do each and everything for Baba and the humanity.

Thus at Ananda Purnima all are invited to sit together – money or other factors are not at all important. Everyone comes together regardless of one’s social status, career, educational background, or family history etc. It is a time for all grades of devotees to join together and gather for sweet celebrations, non-margiis are also invited – so long as they follow according to the sentient ways of the gathering. Only those anti-social elements, not at all interested in following the spirit of the program, should not be invited. Beyond that Ananda Purnima is a grand occasion for one and all.

ALL TYPES OF SOCIAL SERVICES

In addition, during Ananda Purnima all the trades and departments of AMPS partake in their respective social service programs. VSS optees do CSS, i.e collective social service such as public cleaning or repair work or other physical works for the security, safety, and welfare of the society etc. Side by side AMURT can operate their free medical clinics. In this way, Ananda Purnima is a day for doing all types of services because we Ananda Margiis are declassed and perform all the sevas.

A FRESH NEW START

Universal festivals like Ananda Purnima are also a time for forgetting about past differences and starting new relations. They are a time for a fresh new start where we bury old issues, forgive and forget, sit together, and invite a clean new beginning.

Baba guides us that in personal life it is best to forgive others with our full heart. Of course on matters of ideology or collective welfare we have no right to forgive anyone. But on personal affairs, forgiving others is the best course of action and what better time to do this than on the blissful occasion of Ananda Purnima.

THE IMPORTANCE OF FESTIVALS

Here following Baba is describing the great import that festive occasions like Ananda Purnima have on the human psyche. And that such social functions lead to the formation of a unified humanity.

Baba says, “When people become tired and uninspired, when they can no longer look towards the future with hope, when their colourful dreams are shattered, at that time the sweetness of a festival brings new joy and vigour in life. Thus in individual and collective life, the importance of festivals is tremendous. One should always remember that festivals should be such that all can take part in them without any ostentatious display of wealth, and with an upsurge of their life force. And these festivals should be conducted in such a way that people take part in them from a spontaneous inner urge. I hope that you will make such arrangements so that all are attracted towards your festivals which will be more and more charming – and this will bring about your collective welfare.” (A Few Problems Solved -5, p.18)

Namaskar,
Shivadayal Deva

Note 1: USE BABA’S ORIGINAL ANANDA VANIIS –

NOT FAKE ANANDA VANIIS

Baba’s original and true Ananda Vaniis are His divine gifts for one and all as they encapsulate the spirit of Ananda Marga and the spirit of humanity. Thus, they are truly timeless and eternal treasures of humanity.

However, since 1990 certain respected leaders have been creating their own vaniis. They cut and paste quotes from previously posted discourses and call them Ananda Vaniis; when in fact the sentences they select are nothing but a small part of a greater discourse. They are taken out of context.

Baba’s original and true Ananda Vaniis are discourses unto themselves – complete, pointed, and stand alone as eternal truths and as spirited messages for the humanity. They are not mere quotes from other discourses. Baba’s every Ananda Vanii is totally unique and original.

So what these leaders are doing is nothing but manufacturing Fake Ananda Vaniis. Yet they name these as Ananda Vaniis and read them on the occasion of A’nanda Pu’rn’ima’ etc. But again, these are nothing but Fake Ananda Vaniis.

What should we do?

While certain leaders continue creating Fake Ananda Vaniis, in each and every unit margiis should select one of Baba’s original timeless Ananda Vaniis and read that out at their Ananda Purnima celebrations.

Naturally, in due course, with circumstantial pressure, such persons will stop making Fake Ananda Vaniis. That day is fast approaching.

Note 2: LOCAL CELEBRATIONS ENCOURAGED

If any group is recommending that people come “to their place” – such as Tiljala, insinuating that theirs is best place for Ananda Purnima etc, then in our hearts and minds we should all know that Baba’s system is for Ananda Purnima to be celebrated locally in every unit, as His divine grace and presence is felt throughout this entire universe.

Note 3: THE ADVENT OF MAHASAMBHUTI

Baba says, “When He comes, after creating His own body with the help of the five fundamental factors– solid, liquid, luminous, aerial, ethereal – to create an ideological tidal wave, that is called as Maha’sambhu’ti. Maha’ means ‘great’, ‘having a form which is supra-natural’. And bhu plus ktin equals bhu’ti. Hence Maha’sambhuti means ‘The Great Creation’, ‘The Great Appearance’…[He comes] to push humans society forward, to resuscitate the half-dead human race, to awaken society– to create a wave in the field of ideology, in the social field, and in the field of humanity; [He comes] to create a tidal wave in every dimension and on every level.” (Discourses on Tantra – 1, p. 136)

Baba, O’ Divine Entity, You remain always in the depths of my mind – You never leave me. I am never alone. Baba, You are always awake. You go on working day and night, beyond time. You never tire or stop. Baba, whatever You want to do, You go on doing.

O Parama Purusa, this whole expressed universe is Your eternal game. You are ever-present: beginningless and endless. You are ever intoxicated in Your divine flow. You are the Goal of everyone – everyone wants You. You are remaining with one and all.

Baba, only those trying to come close to You by their virtuous deeds, shravan, manan, nididhyasana, & dhyana, are able to come to You. Only they are able to realise You and have Your grace and proximity.

Note: This series of letters, “A’nanda Pu’rn’ima’ Celebrations: Baba’s Guidelines”, has four parts. Each part, presented by a different margii, offers complementary ways and descriptions for celebrating Ananda Purnima. Together, these letters paint a picture for how to commemorate this grand festival. We wholeheartedly welcome your suggestions as well. – AM-GLOBAL Moderators

Namaskar,
The auspicious and grand occasion of A’nanda Pu’rn’ima’ is coming soon.

The official day is Sunday, May 6 – though in many units celebrations start before then since A’nanda Pu’rn’ima’ is the most significant social function in our Marga.

WE ALL KNOW…

Of course we all know that the holy day of A’nanda Pu’rn’ima’ means Baba’s Birthday in colloquial parlance. And that on this wonderful and blissful occasion there is a morning and evening dharmacakra, collective bath, all-round merrymaking, and a sentient feast etc.

Yet there are also other special components to the celebration of Ananda Pu’rn’ima which Baba has outlined. Some of these are listed and described below and other margiis and WT’s are kindly requested to contribute other plans and programs which they know about that are associated with the celebration Ananda Purnima .

INNER MEANING

Here first though is one of the special ideations linked to the holy festival of A’nanda Pu’rn’ima’.

A’nanda Pu’rn’ima’ signifies the advent of Mahasambhuti who has come to wipe away all the tears and fog from this dusty earth and infuse within all a sense of peace, hope, tranquility and bliss. But He has graciously come to establish the lost humanity in divinity – elevating everyone’s standard, and paving the way for the reign of dharma.

A FEW MORE WAYS TO CELEBRATE THIS DAY

Here below are a few of Baba’s many recommendations and guidelines for how to make the occasion of Ananda Purnima an even more memorable, joyful, and charming gathering for one and all.

(A) On the grand festival time of Ananda Purnima, all types of age groups should have their own programs that will be appealing to them. Certainly there will be one central place for the entire gathering, yet at the same time specialised plans and programs for the various age divisions should be organised.

For the younger children there should be games and sports and / or a drama production etc.

For adolescents & teenagers there should be competitions in the various realms from kaoshikii and tandava to music, art, and literature. And their day should also include sporting events etc.

And likewise for adults, there should be a range of activities and programs from the devotional singing of kiirtan to service projects, plus spiritual talks, dance competitions, and general socialising.

(B) In addition, on Ananda Purnima the head of household can utilise this as the time to arrange annual new clothes for all family members. Plus there should be toys for the children and the sharing of sweet treats. By this way one and all will know that something great is happening and that Ananda Purnima is a grand event.

(C) Ananda Purnima can also be made special by offering moderate gifts and presents or cards etc to those around you as a showing of love and affection.

(D) And like that many, many more points and suggestions are there in relation with the grand and blissful celebrations of Ananda Purnima.

THE KEY POINT

In this way social functions and festivals are a time for us all to move together in His divine flow, regardless of one’s standard or status. Where one and all gather round in the spirit of unity. And top of all our special duty as devotees is to propagate the greatness and grandeur of Sadguru Baba. In a phrase we can say that this is the key point behind the auspicious occasion of A’nanda Pu’rn’ima’: To highlight Baba’s greatness.

Baba says, “The one formless, beginningless and infinite Parama Brahma (Supreme Consciousness) is the only entity to be attained by living beings— That alone is Jagat Guru (the Supreme preceptor), That alone has revealed Brahmavidya (intuitional science) to us through the medium of the name and form of Anandamurtijii. Unit beings must be made to appreciate Its majesty.” (Caryacarya II, p.1)

Namaskar,
Amriteshwar Deva

Note 1: SPIRIT OF OUR AM SOCIAL FUNCTIONS

The magnificent characteristic of all our Marga social gathering is that they welcome one and all irrespective of age, colour, race, profession, educational standard, etc, all types from all places are welcome. Indeed everyone comes together for sadhana, games, a feast, and other celebratory activities and by this way one social flow is formed thus making way for a healthy, unified human society.

Note 2: BABA’S BLESSING

On the celebratory occasions of our AM festivals like Ananda Purnima, Baba has graced us with this special blessing.

Baba says, “That which renews human existence and makes it full to the brim and overflowing with the joy of living is termed a festival…Inspire all people to live with a new spirit like true human beings. Let it inspire them with the fact that all humanity is an indivisible entity. On this auspicious day this is my inner wish.” (Ananda Vanii #48)

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

“A’sha’r pasara’ sahasa’ elo, a’lor tupha’n nikat’e elo…” (PS #3644)

Purport:

Suddenly Baba, the Divine Effulgence, has taken advent. The cyclone of divine effulgence has come close. His divine effulgence is immense, like a huge mountain covering the entire world. The whole world is inundated with the flood of divinity.

Even in remote corners, not even an iota of darkness was left. Not even a tinge of darkness or dirt could remain in anyone’s mind. Everyone’s mind has become cleansed and purified. Parama Purusa Baba, with His divine effulgence, has taken advent and attracted everyone by the outpouring of love from His heart.

Everyone has received His special grace: Those bound in the cimmerian darkness and tied up in the deep, dark chasm, and those whose mind had accumulated dogma the size of a mountain. All are now basking in His divine grace. They have been blessed with the opportunity to look toward that divine effulgence. Their dogma and staticity vanished away with the advent of the new dawn.

Baba, the Parama Purusa, with His divine effulgence has come and showered His divine effulgence and graced everyone…

Namaskar,
My family and I have been following the news of this awful sexual crime perpetrated by this dada.

“The assailant was Mukunda’nanda, a senior dada 50+ years of age. He is hardcore cadre of Rudra’nanda…Mukunda’nanda sexually assault…In the aftermath, the girl was admitted to the hospital”

We made additional investigations and have posted that info below. We feel this is a case that we all should be concerned about as it potentially represents a more systemic problem.

Here is more about what we found out.

MORE ABOUT MUKUNDA’NANDA

Dada Mukunda’nanda has a sectorial level posting in VSS so he goes all around Delhi sector. Thus he has the freedom to roam everywhere. His exact posting is sectorial organizing secretary (VSS).

NAMES OF HIS SUPERVISORS

We found out that his immediate supervisor is Ac. Parma’nanda Avt, Chief Secretary (VSS) of Delhi sector. The next higher up is Ac Mantracetana’nanda Avt, SG (Secretary General). We should watch how they handle the situation, and not tolerate any delay or covering up. Per Baba’s system, these supervisory workers are to be held accountable.

Baba says, “Supervisory workers will have to take care of each of their supervised staff in all respects.” (WT Code of Conduct, “Six Addition Rules”, pt #2)

Thus when Mukunda’nanda has done the unspeakable and sexually assaulted a minor, it is unacceptable for his supervisors to keep mum or try to sweep this under the rug. Merely sending Mukunda’nanda for retraining is also inappropriate given the gruesome and sinful nature of his crime.

WAS THIS THE FIRST TIME?

The sexual crime against this 7-year-old margii girl took place in Daltonganj District and in Chainpur block. We have come to know the name of the exact village but for the protection of the family and respect of their privacy, I refrain from including the village name here. Thank you for your understanding.

At this point the great fear is that this dada engaged in prior attacks that went unreported. That is a distinct concern as sexual criminals are most often repeat offenders.

Social scientists and psychologists have concluded that: “Compared to non-sex offenders released from State prisons, released sex offenders were 4 times more likely to be rearrested for a sex crime.”

We cannot definitively say that Mukunda’nanda committed more sexual crimes in the past, but evidence uncovered in this recent Daltonganj attack leads in that direction. We are dealing with a highly confident and seasoned assailant. Based on the ghastly details of this crime, it does not appear to be the work of a first-time perpetrator.

MORE REASONS WHY THIS HAPPENED

Another key reason behind this nefarious encounter is Dadaji’s ongoing lack of discipline. He is highly remiss in adhering to the daily code of conduct for acaryas and avadhutas.

For instance, this Dada keeps his hair and beard very short, which goes against points #1 & 2 of “32 Rules for Avadhu’tas.” Furthermore Mukunda’nanda Dada is not strict in sentient food, nor does he follow the fasting schedule properly. Verily there are so many ways how in his day to day life he is negligent in following Baba’s assigned codes of conduct.

To put it in a more graphic way, this Dada has been leading a dual life. In the daytime, he moves among margiis in saffron robes to be venerated as an acarya and avadhuta; and then in the nighttime, and sometimes during the day also, he roves the streets in civil dress. On more than one occasion this Dada has been seen entering raucous nightclubs and late-night hot-spots, among other places he frequents.

Here it should be understood that this dada is not alone in his poor, un-acarya-like conduct. Many dadas with short hair and well-trimmed beards, especially those in India, lead a dual existence where negative habits and tamasik indulgence are common. Dadas posted in India have no reason not to keep proper longer-length hair, a minimum of 13+ inches. And the beard should be at least 3 1/2 inches in length. That is the mandate.

So dadas must have longer hair and didis must have shorter hair. More about this has been written in note 1.

The overall point is that if any acarya’s presentation does not reflect that of a yogic monk, then they are often involved in dirty and degraded dealings. Such was certainly the case with Mukunda’nanda. All this and more contributed to his demise.

Baba says, “Bear in mind that people may be harmed or misled by even a small weakness or defect in the conduct of an ácárya. Just as it is the duty of a father to educate his children properly by his good conduct, an ácárya or ácáryá should always instruct by his or her exemplary actions and words.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam – 31, The Conduct of an Ácárya)

By failing to follow our Ananda Marga conduct rules for wholetimers, this dada fell deep into the depths of self-destruction.

TERRIBLE IRONY

One of the disturbing ironies of this case / crime is that Mukunda’nanda himself is posted in VSS. His duty was to protect the common people from such attacks. He was to protect the defenseless; yet he himself became the perpetrator. This makes his case particularly vile.

WHY HE REMAINS

All this begs the question, “Why does Rudrananda keep him in the fold and in the cadre?”

The answer is quite straightforward. Criminals and characterless people are very easy to command. Such persons will obey all orders from their superiors because they know that their leaders will save them from all kinds of embarrassment, shame, and difficulties. Leaders like Rudrananda will ensure poorly behaved dadas do not get a bad name and refrain from reporting them to the police. That is the unspoken trade between fallen acaryas like Mukunda’nanda and leaders like Rudrananda.

Actually these days in Ananda Marga, the top leaders want their staff to commit crimes, because then they have “dirt” on that worker and can get them to do anything. In exchange for saving them from disgrace, those fallen workers become extremely obedient to their boss(es).

That is the sole reason why Rudrananda keeps him in Wt dress.

WHAT WE SHOULD DO

As members of the Marga, we should take it upon ourselves to ensure justice is done on various levels:

a) The entire cost of the treatment for the victim and the victim’s family should be shared by the bhukti or the region; and if they cannot manage then other margins should help. The victim’s family should not bear the financial burden. In addition, margiis must offer support on the physical, emotional and psychic levels. The bhukti pradhan, or another responsible post holder, should go to the victim family’s village and beg apology and express concern for their for psychic healing.

b) Honoring their privacy and safety, the young girl and her family should be counseled and supported fully.

c) We should approach the concerned authorities and law enforcement agencies like the police to ensure more crimes of this nature do not recur. This is as severe as a murder case. If a murder is committed, top dadas cannot say, “Just keep quiet and send him to training center for a month.” Some wrongly want to keep things hidden in order to save a dada’s prestige. But that is what Catholic priest did and see what happened. The situation demands full exposure to the police. Otherwise this such attack will never be addressed and it will grow and be like that of the catholic priests. When it is reported to the police then sinners will be deterred.

d) Let me reiterate, merely sending this dada for re-training is not enough.

Namaskar,
Divyamshu Deva

Note 1: WARNING! DO NOT GIVE THEM DONATIONS

Those dadas posted in India who maintain a short beard and short hair are most probably involved in devious actions. Do not give them donations – rather, watch out. They are criminals dressed as monks. It is our mistake that we are feeding such hypocrites. Then those same hypocritical dads attack us. Our duty is to starve such hypocrites. Do not contribute any funds to those not following conduct rules regarding length of beard, mustache and hair. All male wts must keep long hair (13+ inches) and all female wts must keep short hair (1 centimeter). Those not following these parameters are of questionable character. The only exception is for those posted outside where for certain political reasons they have to adjust. But this does not apply to those posted in India. So watch out.

Note 2: PRIOR LETTERS ON THIS TRAGIC CRIME

The above letter is the fourth in this series. Below are links to the first three letters:

Baba, O’ Divine One, due to my own defects I am not able to get close to You. Because of not following Your dharmic guidelines, my progress is hindered and I am just keeping myself away from You. Baba, please grace me and remove all my shortcomings and weaknesses, and bring me in Your closest proximity. Please be gracious and take me in Your lap. In my life I have received an abundant amount of love from You; You have graced me so much. Baba, now I am offering my love to You – please grace me by accepting it.

Baba, O’ my Lord, in the sky there is a deep blueness and my tender heart is full of love for You. Baba, I do not want my love to remain hidden & secluded in my little heart. Please allow the reddish glow of my heart – i.e. my love – to merge in the vastness of the distant blue sky. Baba, please let my love reach up to the highest realm – reach up to You.

Baba, when I sing the song and ideate on You there is a deep feeling of longing in my heart. You have graciously given the tune and in that way I sing for You. Baba, may my heart’s inner longing be goaded & pointed exclusively toward You. Baba, O’ Parama Purusa, by Your grace, I should always contemplate and think of You; my life should revolve and dance around You. My life should be successful, please grace me…

O’ Baba, by thinking of You with all the feelings of my heart, my ba’ndha-bha’unga’ mana [1] is ensconced in bliss and floats towards infinity. O’ Lord of the divine and mortal worlds, the Soul of the soulless, even a wee-bit of Your great love is enough to fill my heart with spiritual bliss and give me goose bumps, horripilation, throughout my being. Baba, is it You who brings that devotional surge within me.

Baba, You are incomparable in rhythm and most pleasant in aroma. You have no comparison. In all vibrations, in the quintessence, deep down, You are the Dearest One to all; You are the nucleus of all the vibrations. In the garland You are the flower. In the necklace You are the jewel. In everything You are the best. Remaining in viitara’ga [2], You smile with the beauty of divine love like flowers.

Baba, in the severe heat, You are those first, cool showers that bring relief and respite. In the space between the monsoon clouds, You are the effulgent pole star. In the darkness, You are the beauty of the moon’s enchantment. Under the hot sun, You are cool shade beneath the trees. In each and every circumstance, You are the Saviour. Baba, even staying afar, You stay in my mind’s divine haven.

[1] Ba’ndha-bha’unga’ mana: This is when the mind is overwhelmed with joy. Such as when one is extremely happy and bursts into tears or when one jumps for joy or exclaims or dances. In actuality though it is more than the joy experienced in worldly circumstances. It is that inexpressible bliss from the spiritual flow. It happens in the spiritual realm when one’s mind is totally ensconced in His bliss and one starts crying uncontrollably. This is a state wherein one completely loses their composure.

[2] Viitara’ga: This is the state of being beyond any worldly attachment or attraction – i.e. perfect equanimity in all circumstances. One of the qualities of Parama Purus’a is vaera’gya. Baba has demonstrated this on countless occasions. Even when all kinds of serious and critical problems came in the organisation, then He remained totally unaffected, keeping perfect composure. For social reasons He may have showed sympathy or concern, but internally He was totally unaffected. Those bhaktas close to Baba understand this well.

For instance, before going to jail & whenever there was serious any catastrophe going on in organisational life, Baba had the divine ability to give discourses of eternal value. That can only happen when one’s mind is in viitaraga.If anyone reads that discourse they will not get any hint about the extreme upheaval going on in the organisation. Such composure ise not possible by human beings. Being human means being affected by the bondaage of maya.

Whereas in viitraga the mind remains 100% unassailed by any negativity, and is just the embodiment of universal welfare. Viitara’ga does not mean that the Entity in viitara’ga is unpetrubed by the suffering and tears of human beings. Everyone knows that Parama Purusa loves and cares so much.

== HIGHLY REFINED LANGUAGE ==

Namaskar,

Baba says, “Pra’krta was the language of the common people. The scholars of those days used to neglect this language and compose their literature in Sanskrit. For this reason this highly refined language was called “Sanskrit” which implies that it was not the people’s language; it was written by refining the people’s language…When Krs’n’a would speak with Duryodhana he would use Sanskrit but when he spoke with the Pandavas he would speak in Shaorasenii Pra’krta because he had a close relationship with the five Pandavas.” (Varna Vijiana, p.65)

In our Ananda Marga society, the Sanskrit language is part and parcel of our daily existence. Baba has infused the system where every initiated margii receives a Sanskrit name, most of the chants are in Sanskrit, many of His discourses are interwoven with Sanskrit shlokas, and the names of the various wings of our organisation are mostly in Sanskrit etc. In that way Sanskrit is part of the very pulsation of life in AM. Given this, we should understand why Baba has selected Sanskrit to have such a special place in our Marga. As Baba tells in the above quote the language is called Sankrit because it is highly refined. That is the meaning behind the name. And we can rationally conclude that Baba given this highly refined language a sacred spot in our Marga because it nicely reflects the subtle aspects of human existence and life divine.

The term ‘Shaorsen’ refers to an area outside Delhi near Mathura and the language from that area is known as ‘Shaorasenii’. So the linguistic relationship between Sharosen and Shaorasenii is the same as that between Italy and Italian, Japan and Japanese, Russia and Russian, Bengal and Bengali, Bhojpur and Bhojpuri, Spain and Spanish. The first term refers to the place and that latter term refers to the language.

Baba, You are so loving and close – even then it is not possible to recognize You. Just when I think that I have recognized You, then my consciousness gets completely enveloped by the Cimmerian darkness. Baba, Your divine Presence shifts from one extreme to the next. On the one side You are so tough and other times You are very soft and sweet.

Baba, sometimes You are vehemently sounding Your sermons by the beating of the marching drum and blowing of the military trumpets; and on other occasions You are smiling sweetly and showering Your causeless grace with the flower pollen. Baba, such is Your beauty. O’ Baba, in the end, in the lonely, isolated moment, I see that everything happens by Your grace. What You desire, that is what happens – that is the final truth.

O’ Parama Purusa Baba, in Your grand Kingdom, everything belongs to You. I cannot boast that anything is mine; indeed to think that something is mine is a crime. Because everything is created by You – this whole expressed universe is Your mental projection. Then how can I say that anything is mine.

Baba, only You are mine; everyone is Yours. Baba, everyone longs for Your karuna’ – divine compassion. Baba, to recognize You is not possible without Your grace. Baba only with the showering of Your grace can one realise You – otherwise not. Baba please grace me…

== PRACTICAL ASPECT OF MYSTICISM ==

Baba says, “Mysticism is a never-ending endeavour to find a link between finite and infinite.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam – 23, p.101)

Note: Here Baba is indirectly giving the guideline that in the realm of devotion one should have a particular personal relation with Parama Purusa. And these relations are known as “bhava” – whether they be sakhya bhava, dasya bhava, madhura bhava etc. So these various bhavas are that very “link between finite and infinite”. Because with the help of these relations devotees gradually come in closer and closer proximity with Parama Purusa. Until finally by linking up in this way the sadhaka becomes one with Him.

Namaskar,
I appreciate the views expressed in the first letter and feel that the stand of our Ananda Marga on homosexuality is very clear.

>So homosexuality runs contrary to the aim of human life, according to our
>AM perspective. When sex is supposed to be only for procreation – that is
>the only time that sex is supported in our AM way of life – then there is
>no logical support whatsoever for the ways of homosexuality / lesbianism,
>where sex is just an “animalistic pleasure-seeking” tool. Ultimately, such
>relations will just lead to one’s degeneration and degradation.

HERE ARE SOME MORE THOUGHTS ON THIS TOPIC

1. SCIENCE OF VRTTIS: We have various propensities such as greed, sleep, hunger, and so many more. If a person increases the number of hours they sleep to the point of indulgence, then their desire for more sleep escalates.

For instance, if a person sleeps 8 hours and increases that to 10 hours, then their desire for sleep will grow more. They may desire to sleep 12 hours. In one discourse, Baba states that a person might increase their sleep so much that they sleep all 24 hrs. The same is the case with food, fear, drinking and all propensities. The more any vritti is encouraged then the more active that vrtti becomes. That is the science of vrttis in Ananda Marga. That is why we must control and channelise lowly propensities like fear and sleep – otherwise those vrittis will envelop us and we will be scared of our own shadow and sleep 24 hrs a day.

Similarly, with regards to sex, one must never encourage this base propensity. That will lead to one’s utter degradation. So when homosexuals again and again give way to their crude animalistic, sexual desires, then that sex vrtti will multiply more and more until it totally consumes one’s entire existence and mental framework. To indulge in this way is to only increase one’s crude desires and degrade the mind.

This applies to heterosexuals as well. If anyone indulges in sex it will bring about their degradation and their mind will be sunk in crudity. That is why Baba guides us that everyone should practice restraint. With that viewpoint in mind, married persons should only engage for society building purposes; while there is no logic or reason for anyone to ever indulge in homosexual behaviours. Rather their glandular system should be rectified through asanas, sadhana and other treatment as needed

2. HOMOSEXUAL LUST CANNOT FULFILL HUMAN DESIRE: Human desires are infinite and they can only be truly satiated through sadhana and reaching Parama Purusa. So even if one indulges in sex 24 hrs a day, then they cannot satisfy their inner human longing. Rather they will smother it and become frustrated and crude. If one wants bliss then sex is the wrong path because you cannot satisfy your infinite desire for spiritual bliss through crude, mundane indulgence like sex.

That is why only fake Ananda Margiis indulge in the sex-centered ways of homosexuality. And it is good that true Ananda Margiis do not at all appreciate homosexuality. Here it should be perfectly clear that sexual indulgence is never the solution – neither for homosexuals nor heterosexuals. All should be encouraged to follow Sixteen Points and strive for spiritual bliss.

3. SUB-HUMANS: Please excuse me for saying this but only those sub-humans who are dominated by animal propensities can lead the life of a homosexual.

4. STRAIGHT FROM ANIMAL LIFE: By viewing the activities, of any human being, you can get an idea how subtle and refined they are and even surmise if they have been through multiple human lives and been on the path of sadhana.

In the case of homosexuality, where one is indulged in sexual indulgence just for satisfying animalistic desires, without the responsibility of society building, we can also make a calculation. Such homosexuals are worse than animals since animals only indulge for purposes of procreation, not due to crude lust. Whereas homosexuals have sex only for carnal pleasure.

For theses reasons and more, this could be their first time in human form. Hence they misutilise the opportunity. Instead of focusing on morality and the Divine, they fall prey to the baser propensities. That is the unfortunate circumstance. We should work hard to help such persons onto the path of true spirituality.

5. NOT APPRECIATED IN AM: There are some homosexuals and lesbians hiding in AMPS, yet in our Ananda Marga the way of life which leads to negative pratisaincara is not accepted. No true Ananda Margii appreciates this lifestyle rather it is totally discouraged.

Here is one of Baba’s all-important teachings on this critical matter.

Baba says, “The essence of blood, when transformed, becomes shukra, and this shukra is food for the brain. In the absence of shukra, or in case of its impaired functioning, the entire constitution may be impaired, the body may become susceptible to disease, and mental and spiritual sa’dhana’ may be impaired. Therefore, [sexual] restraint is a must for every man and woman, because only self-control helps achieve the maximum preservation of shukra.” (Caryacarya-3)

Baba, O’ Parama Purusa, my heart was sunk in sorrow and woe; I was forlorn and had lost all hope. I was crying, thinking I am all alone and that in this world no one is mine. Baba, You have graced me by coming and blessed me with Your love. You have made my heart and mind overflowing in Your divine bliss. By Your causeless grace, all my pains, lamentations, and tragedies have been wiped away. You have filled my life with bliss.

O’ my Lord, You are so gracious. You have responded and come to me with Your sweet smile. Baba, with Your infinite beauty and charm You have won over everyone’s heart. Baba, my love knows only You. You are everything for me. There is no one else; nothing else can attract me; I only love You. Baba, it is Your grace: I am always ensconced in Your tune, melody, and Your divine attraction – in pleasure, in pain, and also when my pride is wounded. Baba, You belong to everyone, even then in my heart I know that You are only mine. You belong to me and me alone.

Baba, Your presence is everywhere. The mark of Your love is found on the flower and the leaves – on every spot in this panoramic world. Even then the black bee of my mind wants You alone. Baba on my worst days, when all hope was gone, when I had lost everything, in that desperate circumstance when no one else was there to help me, You always came and resolved all my troubles, pains, and problems. Baba, You are the sweetest of the sweet. You are only mine; You are only mine.

Baba, You have graced me by coming. It is Your grace; it is Your grace…